Lessons

The scripture reading on August 16, 2009 lesson was in Romans 16:17-20, 25-27 and it is the beginning of the end of this series in Romans. Romans 16:17-20, 25-27 says “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.” This series covered a chapter a week after some introductory lessons and this lesson where chapter 16 is broken up into two lessons. This study focuses on the last part of Romans 16. It looks at some dispensational issues that are brought out here because Paul still emphasizes that Israel is still in the forefront of his teaching. Acts 28 has not occurred at this time and Israel has not been set aside so Israel is still the apple of God’s eye at this point when Paul was writing this letter. We need to keep that in mind because there is a distinction between this and the private mail the gentiles were given after Acts 28. In verse 20 ”…the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly …” is explained by taking you back to the first time this promise was given in Genesis 3:15 and when it will be accomplished in Revelation. Why did Paul say this would be done shortly? It has been 2000+ years since he said this. What happened?